Level of Education of Students Involved

Undergraduate

Faculty Sponsor

James Old

College

Arts and Sciences

Discipline(s)

Political science

Presentation Type

Oral Presentation

Symposium Date

Spring 4-25-2024

Abstract

The study investigates the in depth relationship between the rise in voter polarization and its influence on senators and their political ideologies. It dives into various factors that contribute to this dynamic, including representation and accountability, party dynamics, media influence, institutional factors, and personal beliefs and values. The research posits that increased electorate polarization can lead senators to align more closely with extreme party positions, influenced by the need to secure nominations in primary elections dominated by ideologically extreme voters and the desire to gain attention and support through media exposure. The study emphasizes the importance of understanding the interconnection between these elements to grasp the complexities of the political landscape and the shifting ideologies of senators.

Biographical Information about Author(s)

I find this topic very interesting because I have learned a lot about polarization following the aftermath of the 2020 presidential election and the impacts extreme polarization has on our country and the leadup to where we are in modern day USA.

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